Inpatient management of gamma-hydroxybutyrate withdrawal

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To describe the baseline characteristics, treatment and retention in patients electively admitted for gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) withdrawal management. METHODS: All patients admitted between July 2010 to June 2016 who used GHB two or more times per week with a minimum duration of 3 months were identified and data extracted by file review. RESULTS: Twelve cases satisfied the inclusion criteria, of whom 50% were female; 75% were using GHB daily, with an average daily amount of 16 ml. Average duration of use was 60 months. All subjects were using amphetamine type stimulants and nicotine. Psychiatric comorbidity and unintentional overdose were common; 50% completed treatment. Medications used included diazepam and neuroleptic. Two patients completed withdrawal with no medications. No subject using greater than 90 ml GHB in the preceding week completed treatment. Pattern of GHB use did not predict medication requirements during withdrawal management. CONCLUSIONS: There were low numbers attending for elective treatment for GHB use. Heavier GHB use predicted poor treatment retention. Polysubstance use and psychiatric co-morbidities need consideration in treatment planning.